Why Make This Recipe
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. It combines tender chicken with a creamy cheese topping, making it a family favorite. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, the creamy sauce keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 Chicken breasts, boneless skinless
- 1/2 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tbsp Parsley, fresh
- 1 tsp Powdered garlic
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp Butter, melted
- 8 oz Cream cheese
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise or sour cream, mozzarella cheese, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and salt until well blended.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the cream cheese mixture over the top.
- In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is great served with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with mashed potatoes or pasta for a heartier meal. Drizzle some extra sauce from the baking dish over your sides for added flavor.
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before storing. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add extra spices or vegetables to the cream cheese mixture according to your taste.
- To make it a bit lighter, you can use low-fat cream cheese and mayo.
Variation
You can add chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cream cheese mixture for an added twist. For a bit of spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure they are fully thawed before baking for even cooking.
2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and spread it on the chicken. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta cheese or a mixture of Greek yogurt and soft cheese for a different taste.